Equipping Surgeons to Navigate Adverse Events with Confidence and Expertise
Adverse events are an inevitable part of spinal surgery. While some complications are unavoidable and inherent to surgical procedures, others stem from preventable errors made by the surgical team. The key to addressing these complications effectively lies in preparedness, knowledge, and strategy. That’s exactly what the AO Spine North America Course, Managing Complications: Clinically, Ethically, and Legally, aims to provide.
Now in its fifth year, this highly regarded course will take place in Tampa, FL, on November 7-8, 2025. Designed to guide surgeons through the multifaceted challenges of potential complications in spinal surgery, it offers actionable insights from clinical, legal, ethical, and psychological perspectives.
Designed for practicing orthopedic spine surgeons and neurosurgeons, this program offers limited enrollment to ensure an exclusive and focused experience. It provides a rare opportunity to participate in confidential, in-depth discussions on severe complication cases, those uncommon yet critical scenarios that every surgeon hopes to avoid but must be fully prepared to manage.
What to Expect from the Course
Expert Guidance
You’ll learn from a distinguished panel of experts, including surgeons and legal professionals, who will share their insights into managing complications effectively. There will also be an opportunity to explore state-of-the-art equipment with practical lab demonstration(s).
Key Topics Covered
During the two days, participants will explore topics such as:
- Clinical approaches to managing complications
- Avoiding compensable events and improving risk management
- Preparing for adverse events and communicating with families
- Legal and ethical considerations in patient care
By the end of the course, you will be better equipped to identify factors contributing to complications at every stage (preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative) and assess and manage these complications using appropriate diagnostic tools. You’ll also learn how to communicate effectively with patients, caregivers, and legal counsel, minimize the impact of complications on patient outcomes through optimal treatment strategies, and navigate the legal and ethical obligations associated with complications.
Meet the 2025 Course Faculty
Co-Chairs:
Dr. Agochukwu is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in spine surgery. He graduated from Louisiana State University and received his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency at Madigan Army Medical Center. During his military service, he was stationed at Fort Bragg, where he had the privilege of taking care of service men and women. He then completed a spine fellowship in Augusta, Georgia. His clinical interest and research focus centers on minimally invasive spine surgery, motion preservation surgery, as well as deformity and complex spine revision surgery.
Dr. Harrop is a Professor of Neurological and Orthopedic Surgery at Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University. He serves as Director of the Neurosurgery Department Spine and Peripheral Nerve Surgery Program, Neurosurgical Chief of the TJHU Spine Service, and Neurosurgical Director of the Delaware Valley Model SCI Center. Dr. Harrop completed his neurosurgical residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, including a pediatric neurosurgery rotation at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and a combined neurosurgical and orthopedic spine fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic. He is deeply involved in academic research, boasting over 700 peer-reviewed publications and 150 chapters on spinal disorders. His research is funded by agencies such as NIH, DOD, and PCORI. Dr. Harrop is an active member of organizations like PNS, CSRS, and LSRS.
Featured Expert: Attorney Timothy Linkous
One of the highlights of the course is a session with Timothy Linkous, a seasoned legal expert specializing in healthcare representation. With over 25 years of experience defending healthcare providers in civil litigation, regulatory matters, and risk management, Mr. Linkous brings invaluable insights to the table. His expertise in managing medical professional liability cases will help surgeons better understand their legal responsibilities and how to protect themselves in complex situations.
Get a Preview: Webinar on September 10, 2025
Curious about the course? Join the upcoming webinar, featuring Mr. Linkous and moderated by Richard Bransford, MD. This session offers a sneak peek into the course content and a chance to learn strategies for managing complications. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge ahead of the main event.
Why Attend This Course? Hear from Previous Participants
Previous attendees have highly praised the course. Here’s some of the feedback provided:
- “I learned how to avoid complications and plan to incorporate these strategies into my practice. The case-based discussions were incredibly valuable, highlighting different perspectives on patient care.”
- “This was an outstanding course. The quality of this course ensures I’ll remain an active AO Spine member.”
- “Great course! Great faculty! Great discussion!”
- “Having a lawyer (JD) as a faculty member is invaluable and adds so much more to the course, the agenda, and the discussions we have after each session.”
Secure Your Spot Today
Whether you’re looking to refine your surgical techniques, improve patient outcomes, or gain a deeper understanding of the legal and ethical aspects of complications, this AO Spine NA course is an essential opportunity. Learn from leading experts, hone your skills, and leave equipped to handle the unexpected with confidence.
Event Details:
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Dates: November 7-8, 2025
- Register Here: Course Registration Link
